Family of murdered schoolboy Leo Ross, 12, say ‘our lives have been taken too’

The family of 12-year-old Leo Ross, who was stabbed to death on his way home from school, have paid tribute, saying they ‘want everyone to know what an amazing, kind, loving’ boy he was.

The schoolboy was killed in a country park in the Hall Green area of Birmingham on Tuesday.

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of his murder along with six counts of assault, relating to separate alleged attacks, and possession of a bladed article.

Leo’s family said on Saturday: ‘We want everyone to know what an amazing, kind, loving boy Leo was.

‘Not only has Leo’s life been taken, all of our lives have as well.

‘Leo will be truly missed by all of us. He was loved so much by everyone.

‘The family want to thank the school, the police and everyone involved in the investigation and supporting us all through this horrific time.’

Leo, a pupil at the Christ Church, Church of England Secondary Academy in Yardley Wood, is believed to have been making his way home from school when he was stabbed.

Members of the public came to his aid and summoned the emergency services, but he died in hospital at about 7.30pm.

West Midlands Police said: ‘We have charged a 14-year-old boy with the murder of Leo Ross, who died after being stabbed in Hall Green on Tuesday.

‘The boy, who can’t be named for legal reasons, has been remanded into custody to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday having been charged this afternoon with Leo’s murder and possession of a bladed article.

‘As a result of a thorough investigation and review of all available evidence, we have also charged the 14-year-old boy with six additional assaults, none of which involved the use of a knife.’

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